Cities and Towns in Stanley County, South Dakota
Founded in 1873, Stanley County is one of 66 counties in the state of South Dakota. Historically, Stanley County was formed from unorganized territory. The city of Fort Pierre is the county seat. With FIPS code of 117, Stanley County has a population of 3,032 and area of 1,443 square miles (3,737 km²).
List of all cities in Stanley County, SD alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Fort Pierre, SD | 57532 | 605 |
| Hayes, SD | 57537 | 605 |
| Lacy, SD | 57532 | 605 |
| Laroche, SD | 57532 | 605 |
| Lindsey, SD | 57532 | 605 |
| Mission Ridge, SD | 57532 | 605 |
| Norman Ranch, SD | 57532 | 605 |
| Orton, SD | 57532 | 605 |
| Sansarc, SD | 57537 | 605 |
Major Cities and Towns in Stanley County, South Dakota
Fort Pierre, South Dakota
Location and History
Fort Pierre, located in central South Dakota, is the largest town and county seat of Stanley County. It is situated along the Missouri River, approximately 13 miles north of the state capital, Pierre. Founded in 1817, Fort Pierre was originally established as a trading post by the American Fur Company. It holds significant historical importance as a center for trade and military activity in the 19th century. The fort itself was initially built to secure American interests in the region and facilitate commerce with Native American tribes, primarily the Lakota Sioux. After its closure in 1855, the area continued to be a vital location for settlers heading west, and Fort Pierre’s history as a frontier town attracted many early pioneers. Over time, the town grew into a commercial hub for the surrounding agricultural region, and its location along the Missouri River helped establish it as a key transportation point. Today, Fort Pierre is a small town, but it continues to embrace its rich historical legacy, with preserved landmarks and local pride in its early roots.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Fort Pierre is served by the Stanley County School District, which includes Stanley County High School and Stanley County Middle School. The district offers a range of educational programs and extracurricular activities, including athletics and arts. Notable landmarks in Fort Pierre include the historic Fort Pierre Chouteau, a National Historic Landmark that commemorates the fur trading era and offers historical exhibits and guided tours. The town is also home to the Hughes County Courthouse, a historic building that serves as the seat of local government. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Missouri River provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and water sports, while the nearby Oahe Dam offers recreational activities like hiking, camping, and birdwatching. Fort Pierre is also home to the Stanley County Historical Society Museum, where visitors can learn about the town’s role in early American history. The town’s scenic setting on the Missouri River and its proximity to Pierre make it a popular place for residents and visitors seeking a blend of history and outdoor recreation.
Key Statistics
- Area: 1.2 square miles
- Population: 2,100 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 57532
- Latitude: 44.3571° N
- Longitude: 100.2893° W
Blunt, South Dakota
Location and History
Blunt is a small town located in the northern part of Stanley County, South Dakota. Situated along U.S. Highway 14, Blunt lies approximately 30 miles east of Fort Pierre and 40 miles west of the Missouri River. The town was founded in the late 1800s and named after John Blunt, an early settler and prominent local figure. Blunt developed as a service center for the surrounding farming and ranching communities, with the railroad playing a significant role in the town’s growth. Agriculture has always been the backbone of Blunt’s economy, with nearby farmland used to grow crops like wheat, corn, and soybeans, as well as to raise cattle. Despite its small size, Blunt has remained an important part of Stanley County, providing essential services and a sense of community for its residents. The town has seen gradual population decline over the years, but it continues to be a quiet, rural settlement with strong ties to its agricultural roots.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Blunt is served by the Blunt School District, which includes Blunt High School and Blunt Elementary School. The district is small but offers a comprehensive education, with a focus on academic achievement and extracurricular activities. Key landmarks in Blunt include the Blunt Community Center, which serves as a gathering place for local events and activities. The town also boasts a park and a few local businesses that contribute to its tight-knit community feel. While Blunt lacks large-scale tourist attractions, it is surrounded by beautiful farmland and open prairie, offering scenic views of the rural landscape. Residents and visitors enjoy outdoor activities such as hunting, fishing, and hiking, particularly in the nearby Missouri River region. Blunt’s location along U.S. Highway 14 also makes it a convenient stop for travelers heading through the area, and the town’s rural charm continues to attract those seeking a peaceful lifestyle away from the hustle of larger cities.
Key Statistics
- Area: 0.4 square miles
- Population: 200 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 57522
- Latitude: 44.4908° N
- Longitude: 99.7479° W
Pierre, South Dakota
Location and History
Pierre, the capital city of South Dakota, is located in the central part of the state, along the eastern bank of the Missouri River. It is situated at the crossroads of U.S. Highways 14 and 83 and serves as the state capital due to its strategic location in the center of South Dakota. Pierre’s history dates back to the 1800s, with the town being established in 1880 when it became the state capital following the creation of South Dakota. The town’s name was derived from Pierre Chouteau Jr., a prominent fur trader, and it was chosen due to its accessibility by river, making it a convenient location for government administration and trade. Pierre’s early economy was centered around agriculture, with settlers coming to the area to farm the fertile land. Over the years, Pierre has developed into a governmental and administrative center, with many state offices and services based in the city. The city continues to serve as a hub for state politics and culture, hosting the state legislature and a variety of state agencies.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Pierre is served by the Pierre School District, which includes Pierre High School, T.F. Riggs High School, and several middle and elementary schools. The district is known for its strong academic performance, extracurricular programs, and athletic teams. Notable landmarks in Pierre include the South Dakota State Capitol, a grand building that houses the state’s legislative offices and chambers. Pierre is also home to the South Dakota State Historical Society and Museum, where visitors can learn about the state’s history, culture, and Native American heritage. The Missouri River is a key feature of Pierre, offering opportunities for water-based recreation such as boating, fishing, and kayaking. Additionally, the Oahe Dam, located just north of Pierre, provides recreational areas for camping, hiking, and birdwatching. Pierre’s downtown area is filled with local businesses, restaurants, and shops, adding to the city’s charm. With a blend of political importance, rich history, and natural beauty, Pierre remains a vibrant city in South Dakota.
Key Statistics
- Area: 13.1 square miles
- Population: 14,000 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 57501, 57502
- Latitude: 44.3683° N
- Longitude: 100.3528° W
Kennebec, South Dakota
Location and History
Kennebec is a small town located in the eastern part of Stanley County, South Dakota, situated along U.S. Highway 83. It is located about 15 miles north of the Missouri River and approximately 40 miles south of Pierre. Kennebec was established in the late 1800s and named after the Kennebec River in Maine, reflecting the town’s connection to early settlers from the East. The town developed as a service center for the surrounding agricultural community, with farming and ranching being central to its economy. Kennebec has historically been a small, rural town, with a population that has fluctuated over the years as farming practices evolved. While its role as a trading and transportation center diminished with the decline of the railroad, Kennebec remains a quiet rural town with strong agricultural ties. Today, Kennebec continues to serve the surrounding farming communities, offering services such as banking, local government, and community activities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Kennebec is served by the Lyman School District, which includes Lyman High School and several elementary and middle schools. The district serves the surrounding rural communities, including Kennebec, and provides education through high school. Major landmarks in Kennebec include the Kennebec City Park, which provides a recreational area for residents, complete with picnic tables and space for outdoor activities. The town is also home to the Lyman County Historical Society Museum, which showcases the history of Kennebec and the surrounding region, including exhibits related to Native American culture and early settlement. While Kennebec itself is small, its location along the Missouri River provides residents and visitors with opportunities for fishing, hunting, and other outdoor activities in the surrounding landscape. The town’s agricultural roots and its peaceful, rural setting make it an attractive place for those seeking a slower pace of life.
Key Statistics
- Area: 0.3 square miles
- Population: 250 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 57544
- Latitude: 43.9532° N
- Longitude: 99.5520° W